Franz Joseph I of Austria was the Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary from 1848 until his death in 1916. He was born on August 18, 1830, and ascended to the throne during a time of political upheaval in Europe. His reign saw significant changes, including the Austro-Hungarian Compromise of 1867, which established the dual monarchy of Austria-Hungary. Franz Joseph's leadership was marked by efforts to modernize the empire and maintain stability amid rising nationalism. He faced numerous challenges, including military conflicts and social unrest, but remained a symbol of continuity for the empire until the end of World War I.